How to Apply for South Africa Online Asylum and Renew Permits
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) in South Africa now offers online services for asylum seekers and refugees. You can use these online services to request an appointment for a new application or to extend an existing permit without standing in long queues. I have put together the how to apply for South Africa online asylum and renew your permits as easy as it can be.
Here is a complete guide on how the online asylum system works, who can use it, and key rules you must follow.
1. How the apply for South Africa online Asylum System Works
There are two main online processes used by Home Affairs:
A. Online Appointment Booking for New Applicants
If you are applying for asylum in South Africa for the first time, you must book an appointment online before visiting an office.
Step 1
Send an email to newasylum2022@dha.gov.za stating that you want to apply for asylum. Mention your preferred Refugee Reception Office (e.g., Pretoria, Musina, Durban, Cape Town, or Gqeberha).
Step 2
Home Affairs will send you an application request form.
Step 3
Complete the form, attach your identity documents, and email it back.
Step 4
You will receive an appointment date to visit the Refugee Reception Office in person.
Note: First-time applicants must go in person on their appointment date to capture biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and attend an interview.
B. Online Extension for Existing Permits (Section 22 & Section 24)
If you already hold a Section 22 (Asylum Seeker) or Section 24 (Refugee) permit, you can renew it entirely by email.
- Step 1: Send an email to
asms.extensions@dha.gov.zawith your permit number in the subject line (written in ALL CAPS). - Step 2: Follow the automated email reply, attach your renewal form and proof of address, and send it to your specific Refugee Reception Office.
- Step 3: Once approved, Home Affairs will email you an encrypted PDF permit to print out.
2. Important Deadlines and Timelines
- New Applicants (14-Day Limit): Under South African law, you must register your intention to apply for asylum within 14 days of entering the country.
- Permit Extensions: Submit your renewal request 30 to 60 days before your current permit expires to prevent status gaps.
3. Rules for Applicants Inside vs Outside South Africa
- Inside South Africa: You can freely access both appointment bookings and online permit renewals.
- Outside South Africa: You cannot apply for South African asylum from another country or at overseas embassies. Furthermore, leaving South Africa without official authorisation can cause your asylum claim to be treated as abandoned (in case of Apply for South Africa Online Asylum).
4. Age Limits and Requirements
- Maximum Age: There is no upper age limit. Elderly individuals can apply at any age.
- Adults (18+): Must submit their own individual application.
- Children under 18: Children travelling with parents are included as dependants on the parent’s application. Unaccompanied children are protected by Social Development services.
Key Takeaways
- All Department of Home Affairs asylum services are 100% free of charge.
- Always save copies and proof of sent emails for your official records.